A few years ago Adobe started their subscription model. We have been paying $50 (or so) a month since then.
One project pays for the software. One user interface. One brochure. One photo edit. Its all paid for...for the entire year. We couldn't function without it anymore than we could function without a van.
The sting hurts right now because you didn't expect it.
Avid Stamp Collector - I really love 39 Cent Stamps